This week is nationalHearing Awareness Week (21-27 August), an annual initiative that raises awareness for the needs of Australians who are deaf or hearing impaired.

As a recognised member of the National Relay Service (NRS), State Library Victoria is supporting this annual campaign to promote the service to staff and colleagues.

The Library became a recognised Relay Ready Organisation earlier this year, and coordinated NRS staff training through the Relay Service Friendly Program to ensure everyone has access to this essential service.

Did you know?

around one in six Australians has a hearing impairment

around half of all Australians over 60 have enough hearing loss to make communication difficult

thousands of Australians rely on the NRS to make and receive calls every day

the NRS operates from its call centre where staff relay calls nationally – 24 hours a day, every day of the year

As a Relay Ready Organisation, we are committed to quality service for all our patrons. If you are deaf or have a hearing or speech impairment you can contact us via the National Relay Service. Learn more about the National Relay Service at www.relayservice.gov.au.